Half My Size: Catherine Rector

My Story: Snacking was my downfall. I could sit in front of the TV and eat an entire sleeve of Ritz crackers. On weekdays, I'd grab some fast food on my way home from work. Then, back at my house in Franklin, TN, I'd sit down and eat a full dinner, complete with dessert. Later, I'd nuke a bag of popcorn to munch on. I kept eating all day, but I never felt full. I was also tired all the time — instead of running around with my two kids, I'd order them to play outside while I sat on the couch.

Worst Moment: I went to a concert and the chair wasn't big enough — the fat on my thighs and rear spilled onto the seats next to me. People were pressed up against me on all sides. I was mortified.

Turning Point: When I hit close to 300 pounds — a size 32 — there was only one store that carried clothes big enough for me. The name of the place was Catherine's Stout Shop, which was especially awful because Catherine is my name. At the same time, my marriage was on the rocks because I was always so moody. I knew my husband didn't like my being overweight — and I didn't like it either! That's when a friend told me about the Weigh Down Workshop.

How I Lost It: The plan was perfect for me because I wasn't required to count calories or fat grams. And the workshop instructors told me that I could eat whatever I wanted, as long as it was in moderation. On past diets, I would never have allowed myself chocolate cake — but now I know I can have a few bites. I can even have a little of my mother's fried chicken! The key is to stop when you're satisfied. The best part of the program is that I can serve my whole family the same dishes I'm eating — I just put less on my own plate.

Favorite Tricks: The secret is to redirect your attention away from food. Instead of thinking about eating all day, I now put my energy into other things, like helping people. Recently, I cleaned my mom's house with her, which totally distracted me from food. The same method works when I feel a craving coming on: I resist my urges by picking up the phone to call a friend or turning to my Bible.

Biggest Payoff: Once I started to drop pounds, I also had more energy to play with my kids. For me, losing weight has been the best antidepressant.

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